Gran's appeal to ex-factory colleagues
A retired factory worker who has been diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer has turned to legal experts to find answers about how she could have developed the disease.
Norma Conlon, 71, started to develop chest problems and a cough in February last year and, following further investigations, it was confirmed the following July that she had mesothelioma.
The cancer affects the lining of the lung and is most commonly linked with exposure to asbestos.
In the wake of the diagnosis, Norma, who has three grown-up children and six grandchildren, instructed lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate how she came into contact with the material and whether the exposure may have occurred during her working life.
Roger Maddocks, a partner and specialist asbestosrelated disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell's Newcastle office, is supporting Norma as information is pieced together.
They are especially keen to speak to anyone who worked with her between 1966 and 1968, when Norma was working fulltime, and between 1975 and 1983, when she would cover evening shifts to fit in around her young family. Norma, who is married to Tony, 74, worked as a service hand, an assembly worker and a relief charge during her factory career.
She said: "I am desperate for answers regarding my illness and any help would be hugely appreciated."
Contact Amber Price at Irwin Mitchell on (0191) 279 0111 or email amber.price@ irwinmitchell.com.